Shanty Potatoes

Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

Shanty Potatoes are hearty, comforting skillet dish featuring tender potatoes cooked in a savory onion and margarine mixture, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 4 potatoes, sliced as if to fry
  • 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) margarine
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • water
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Place potatoes, margarine, oil, and chopped onion in a large skillet.
  2. Add water to cover the ingredients.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Cover and cook over medium heat until potatoes are tender and gravy-like, adding water as needed and stirring occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're out of vegetable oil, olive oil is a great substitute. To enhance the dish, add garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and adjust water levels based on desired consistency for a gravy-like texture.

Serving Suggestions

Shanty Potatoes make a hearty side dish and pair wonderfully with grilled meats or a fresh salad. Serve alongside protein-rich options like Stewed Chicken Casserole for a complete meal. Consider a light dessert like Diabetic - Sugarless Apple Pie to finish off the meal on a sweet note, balancing the savory flavors of the potatoes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Shanty Potatoes contains roughly 1052 calories, with 13g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 721mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).

1052 kcal 53% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.7g 25% DV
Total Fat 58.2g 75% DV
Carbs 120.2g 44% DV
Fiber 10.7g 38% DV
Sugar 1.1g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 721.3mg 31% DV
Potassium 2986.9mg 64% DV
Cholesterol 0.7mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 10.2mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 43.9mg 49% DV
Calcium 42mg 3% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of potatoes, although starchy varieties like Russets will yield a fluffier texture, while waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold will hold their shape better. Experiment with what you have on hand for different flavors and textures.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative and ensure your vegetable oil is suitable for your dietary preference. This will keep the dish entirely vegan while maintaining its delicious flavor.

How can I make the dish more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as paprika or cumin, or incorporating sautéed bell peppers along with onions. You could also mix in a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost that complements the potatoes beautifully.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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